Guides
Plain-English explanations of the calculations and rules behind the tools.
How to Calculate Crosswind and Headwind ComponentsLearn the crosswind formula, a quick mental method and a worked example, plus why METAR wind needs a magnetic correction.GuideHow to Read a METAR: A Plain-English GuideDecode every group in a METAR: wind, visibility, weather, cloud, temperature, pressure and flight category, with a worked example.GuideHow to Read a TAF: Airport Forecasts ExplainedUnderstand TAF validity times and the FM, BECMG, TEMPO and PROB change groups, with a decoded example and planning tips.GuideWhat Is in an ICAO Flight Plan? Every Item ExplainedA line-by-line guide to the ICAO flight plan (FPL): items 7 to 19, with a worked example you can generate yourself.GuideThe Wind Triangle Explained: Heading, Ground Speed and DriftHow the wind triangle works: wind correction angle, true heading and ground speed, with formulas and a worked example.GuideFAA Part 117 Explained: Flight Time, Duty Period and RestA plain-English guide to FAA Part 117: flight time limits, flight duty period tables, augmented crews, rest facility classes and rest rules.GuideFlight Fuel Planning Explained: Trip, Contingency, Alternate and ReserveUnderstand the parts of block fuel: taxi, trip, contingency, alternate and final reserve, with a worked example you can check in the calculator.GuideDensity Altitude Explained: How Heat and Height Cut PerformanceWhat density altitude is, how to calculate it from pressure altitude and temperature, and why it lengthens takeoffs and reduces climb.GuideHow to File a Flight Plan: Steps for Pilots and DispatchersThe steps from planning to filing an ICAO flight plan, what happens after filing, and the delay and cancellation messages.GuideHow to Read a NOTAM: ICAO Format ExplainedA guide to the ICAO NOTAM format: the Q-line, the A to G fields, validity times and a decoded example.Guide